Coupling devices for tube sets used with surgical gas delivery systems

ABSTRACT

A coupling system is disclosed for connecting a tube set to a trocar that includes a multi-lumen trocar having a housing that has a connector extending outwardly from the housing, the connector having a plurality of coaxial flow passages defined therein by a plurality of concentric annular walls, a multi-lumen tube set including a plurality of tubes arranged in a parallel relationship, a coupling including a generally cylindrical body having a first end portion adapted and configured to selectively mate with the coaxial flow passages of the connector of the trocar and a second end portion adapted and configured for attachment to the parallel tubes of the tube set, and a latch assembly operatively associated with the cylindrical body of the coupling for selectively engaging the connector of the trocar housing when the coupling mates with the connector.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The subject invention claims the benefit of and priority to U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/208,169 filed Aug. 21, 2015, thedisclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The subject invention is directed to a mechanical coupling, and moreparticularly, to a coupling device for connecting a multi-lumen tube setto a surgical access device used during minimally invasive surgicalprocedures for delivering surgical gas.

2. Description of Related Art

Laparoscopic or “minimally invasive” surgical techniques are becomingcommonplace in the performance of procedures such as cholecystectomies,appendectomies, hernia repair and nephrectomies. Benefits of suchprocedures include reduced trauma to the patient, reduced opportunityfor infection, and decreased recovery time. Such procedures within theabdominal (peritoneal) cavity are typically performed through a deviceknown as a trocar or cannula, which facilitates the introduction oflaparoscopic instruments into the abdominal cavity of a patient.

Additionally, such procedures commonly involve filling or “insufflating”the abdominal (peritoneal) cavity with a pressurized fluid, such ascarbon dioxide, to create what is referred to as a pneumoperitoneum. Theinsufflation can be carried out by a surgical access device (sometimesreferred to as a “cannula” or “trocar”) equipped to deliver insufflationfluid, or by a separate insufflation device, such as an insufflation(veress) needle. Introduction of surgical instruments into thepneumoperitoneum without a substantial loss of insufflation gas isdesirable, in order to maintain the pneumoperitoneum.

During typical laparoscopic procedures, a surgeon makes three to foursmall incisions, usually no larger than about twelve millimeters each,which are typically made with the surgical access devices themselves,typically using a separate inserter or obturator placed therein.Following insertion, the inserter is removed, and the trocar allowsaccess for instruments to be inserted into the abdominal cavity. Typicaltrocars often provide means to insufflate the abdominal cavity, so thatthe surgeon has an open interior space in which to work.

The trocar must provide a means to maintain the pressure within thecavity by sealing between the trocar and the surgical instrument beingused, while still allowing at least a minimum freedom of movement of thesurgical instruments. Such instruments can include, for example,scissors, grasping instruments, and occluding instruments, cauterizingunits, cameras, light sources and other surgical instruments. Sealingelements or mechanisms are typically provided on trocars to prevent theescape of insufflation gas. Sealing elements or mechanisms typicallyinclude a duckbill-type valve made of a relatively pliable material, toseal around an outer surface of surgical instruments passing through thetrocar.

Further, in laparoscopic surgery, electrocautery and other techniques(e.g. harmonic scalpels) create smoke and other debris in the surgicalcavity, reducing visibility by fogging the view from, and coatingsurfaces of endoscopes and the like. A variety of surgical insufflationsystems and smoke evacuation systems are known in the art.

SurgiQuest of Milford, Conn. has developed surgical access devices ortrocars that permit access to an insufflated surgical cavity withoutconventional mechanical seals, and has developed related systems forproviding sufficient pressure and flow rates to such access devices, asdescribed in whole or in part in U.S. Pat. No. 7,854,724, the disclosureof which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

SurgiQuest has also developed multimodal systems, and related devicesand methods, capable of performing multiple surgical gas deliveryfunctions, including insufflation to standard or specialized surgicalaccess devices or other instruments, such as veress needles and thelike, smoke evacuation through standard or specialized surgical accessdevices, and specialized functions, such as recirculation and filtrationof insufflation fluids. Examples of such multimodal systems and relateddevices are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication2012/0150101, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Multimodal systems typically require the use of a disposable filtercartridge having multiple flow passages, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.7,976,598 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0231606,which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties. Thesedisposable filter cartridges are installed in an insufflator and areconnected to a multi-lumen tube set which communicates with a surgicalaccess device or trocar, such as, for example, the devices disclosed inU.S. Patent Application Publication 2012/0245511, which is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety.

The mechanical connection between the tube set and the surgical accessdevice or trocar is typically a threaded connection and often requiresprecise alignment of a plurality of flow paths. Achieving thisconnection can take an inordinate amount of time and can require somelevel of dexterity. A unique coupling system for detachably connecting amulti-lumen tube set to a surgical access device that overcomes thesedeficiencies is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2014/0171855, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety. This connection, which is in the form of aunique triple luer type fitting, is relatively difficult to manufacturein a cost effective manner. It would be beneficial therefore, to providea coupling device for aligning a plurality of flow channels that iseasier to manufacture in a more cost effective manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The subject invention is directed to a new and useful coupling systemfor connecting a tube set to a trocar. More particularly, the systemincludes a multi-lumen trocar having a housing that includes a connectorextending outwardly from the housing. The connector has a plurality ofcoaxial flow passages defined therein by a plurality of concentricannular walls. The system further includes a multi-lumen tube set havinga plurality of tubes arranged in a parallel relationship, and a couplingincluding a generally cylindrical body. The body of the coupling has afirst end portion adapted and configured to selectively mate with thecoaxial flow passages of the connector of the trocar and a second endportion adapted and configured for attachment to the parallel tubes ofthe tube set. A latch assembly is operatively associated with thecylindrical body of the coupling for selectively engaging the connectorof the trocar housing when the coupling mates with the connector.

Preferably, the first end portion of the body of the coupling includes aplurality of concentric annular walls for mating with the connector ofthe trocar and wherein each outer wall is surrounded by an O-ring seal,and the second end portion of the body of the coupling includes aplurality of parallel tube fittings for mating with the tubes of thetube set. Moreover, the first end portion of the body of the couplingincludes an inner flow passage, a medial flow passage surrounding theinner flow passage and an outer flow passage surrounding the medial flowpassage. The second end portion of the body of the coupling includes afirst tube fitting communicating with the inner flow passage in thefirst end portion of the body, a second tube fitting communicating withthe medial flow passage in the first end portion of the body and a thirdtube fitting communicating with the outer flow passage in the first endportion of the body.

In addition, a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart radiallyoutwardly extending posts are provided on an exterior wall of theconnector of the trocar. The latch assembly includes a pair ofdiametrically opposed spring loaded latches for selectively engaging theplurality of posts on the exterior wall of the connector of the trocarhousing when the coupling mates with the connector.

The subject invention is also directed to a coupling system thatincludes a multi-lumen trocar having a housing that has a connectorextending outwardly from the housing. The connector has a plurality ofcoaxial flow passages defined therein by a plurality of concentricannular walls, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced apartradially outwardly extending posts. The system also includes amulti-lumen tube set having a plurality of tubes arranged in a parallelrelationship, and a coupling that includes a generally cylindrical bodyhaving a first end portion adapted and configured to selectively matewith the coaxial flow passages of the connector of the trocar and asecond end portion adapted and configured for attachment to the paralleltubes of the tube set. A latch assembly is operatively associated withthe cylindrical body of the coupling and it includes a pair ofdiametrically opposed spring loaded latches for selectively engaging theplurality of posts on the connector of the trocar housing when thecoupling mates with the connector.

Preferably, the first end portion of the body of the coupling includes aplurality of concentric annular walls for mating with the connector ofthe trocar and wherein each outer wall is surrounded by an O-ring seallocated within an annular groove, and the second end portion of the bodyof the coupling includes a plurality of parallel tube fittings formating with the tubes of the tube set.

Each latch of the latch assembly includes outwardly extending parallelextensions that slideably engage within openings of the cylindrical bodyand mate with the opposing latches. In one embodiment, each extensionincludes holes that engage corresponding posts of the opposing latch. Inan additional embodiment, each extension includes ratchet teeth thatengage ratchet teeth on the extension of the opposing latch.

The subject invention is also directed to a coupling system thatincludes a multi-lumen trocar having a housing that has a connectorextending outwardly from the housing. The connector has a plurality ofcoaxial flow passages defined therein by a plurality of concentricannular walls. The system also includes a multi-lumen tube set having aplurality of tubes arranged in a parallel relationship, and a couplingthat includes a generally cylindrical body having a first end portionadapted and configured to selectively mate with the coaxial flowpassages of the connector of the trocar and a second end portion adaptedand configured for attachment to the parallel tubes of the tube set. Thefirst end portion of the body of the coupling includes a plurality ofconcentric annular walls for mating with the connector of the trocar andwherein each outer wall is surrounded by an O-ring seal.

Preferably, a latch assembly is operatively associated with thecylindrical body of the coupling and it includes a pair of diametricallyopposed spring loaded latches with springs positioned between each latchassembly and the cylindrical body of the coupling. The spring springsallow for manipulating outwardly extending parallel extensions of eachlatch assembly to engage and release connector and coupling.

In on embodiment, an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve are associatedwith the cylindrical body of the coupling. Axial movement of the outersleeve exposes a plurality of circumferentially arranged flexiblefingers on a leading surface of the inner sleeve for selectivelyengaging the connector of the trocar housing when the coupling mateswith the connector.

In an additional embodiment, a ring assembly is operatively associatedwith the cylindrical body of the coupling. The ring assembly has aflexible arm for manipulating an associated disc to selectively engagethe connector of the trocar housing when the coupling mates with theconnector.

These and other features of the coupling system of the subject inventionand the manner in which it is manufactured and employed will become morereadily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art from thefollowing enabling description of the preferred embodiments of thesubject invention taken in conjunction with the several drawingsdescribed below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that those skilled in the art to which the subject inventionappertains will readily understand how to make and use the couplingassembly of the subject invention without undue experimentation,preferred embodiments thereof will be described in detail herein belowwith reference to certain figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a coupling assembly for a tri-lumen tubeset in accordance with the subject invention, showing a coupler and amating device configured to connect a tube set to a trocar;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 1, showinga plurality of O-rings and diametrically opposed latch assemblies;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 1, showingthe coupler and mating device;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the coupler and mating device attachedthereto;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the coupler and mating device, showingremoval of the coupler from the mating device;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for a tri-lumen tube set, showing a coupler and mating device;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 6, showingsymmetrical flexible tabs of the latch assemblies;

FIG. 8 is a detailed view of the flexible tabs of the coupler of FIGS. 6and 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for a tri-lumen tube set, showing a coupler and mating device;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a latch assembly of the coupler of FIG.9;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 9,showing ratchet teeth of each latch assembly;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 9,showing removal of coupler from mating device;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for a tri-lumen tube set, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an outer sleeve of thecoupler of FIG. 13 in a proximal position exposing circumferentiallyarranged flexible fingers of an inner sleeve;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 14,showing the flexible fingers engaging with the mating device;

FIG. 16 is a side view showing the flexible fingers of the inner sleevelocked with posts of the mating device;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for a tri-lumen tube set, showing a coupler;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a ring assembly associated with thecoupler having a disc attached a flexible arm;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 17, showing anexternal post and two anchors to engage with the ring assembly;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the coupler and a mating device,showing removal of the coupler from the mating device;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for a dual lumen tube set, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 21,showing a ring and a shroud;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23 of FIG. 21,showing an assembled coupler and the engagement between the coupler andmating device;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for a dual lumen tube set, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 24,showing a ring and shroud integrally connected;

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 26-26 of FIG. 24,showing an assembled coupler and alignment between the coupler andmating device;

FIG. 27 is perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 28 is an exploded perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 27,showing a ring and shroud integrally connected;

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 27showing an assembled coupler and alignment between the coupler andmating device;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 31 is an exploded perspective view of the coupling assembly of FIG.30, showing a ring and a shroud;

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 30,showing an assembled coupler and alignment between the coupler andmating device;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 34 is a cut-out perspective view of the coupling assembly of FIG.33 showing rotation of the coupler to engage posts of the mating devicewithin cam slots;

FIG. 35 is a detailed view of the cam slot of the coupler of FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 34 with post ofmating device fully locked within the respective cam slot;

FIG. 37 is a detailed view of the mating device post within the cam slotof FIG. 36;

FIG. 38 is an alternate embodiment of the cam slot;

FIG. 39 is an alternate embodiment of a coupler for use with a singlelumen;

FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 40-40 of FIG. 39,showing a spring wave washer of the coupler body;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler having lockingtabs for assembling and disassembling the coupler with a mating device;

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a coupler of FIG. 41, showing thelocking tabs positioned over an annular lip of the mating device;

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 43-43 of FIG. 41,showing alignment between the coupler and mating device;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view of the coupler and mating device takenalong line 45-45 of FIG. 44, showing the coupler with internal threadsto engage external threads of the mating device;

FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled coupler and matingdevice of FIG. 44;

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 48-48 of FIG. 47,showing rotating of the coupler to engage external threads of the matingdevice;

FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled coupler and themating device of FIG. 47;

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the coupler taken along line 51-51of FIG. 50, showing a spring loaded ring assembly to lock coupler withmating device;

FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of the coupler of FIG. 50 showingremoval of the coupler by pressing down on a tab of the ring assembly;

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 54-54 of FIG. 53,showing pivoting latches of the coupler to engage an external ring ofthe mating device;

FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view of the coupler, showing pivoting ofthe latch flexes a locking feature over post of mating device;

FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view of the coupler, showing the latchfully locked with mating device;

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 58 is an exploded perspective view of the coupler and mating deviceof FIG. 57, showing pivoting latches of an outer sleeve of the coupler;

FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 59-59 of FIG. 57,showing the latches pivotable about a flange on the outer sleeve;

FIG. 60 is a cross-sectional view of the latch, showing pressure on thelatch to pivot locking features of latches to engage posts of matingdevice;

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 62 is an exploded view of the coupler and mating device of FIG. 61,showing posts of mating device locking into threads of coupler toassemble coupler and mating device;

FIG. 63 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a couplingassembly for use with a single lumen, showing a coupler and a matingdevice;

FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional view of the coupler taken along line 64-64of FIG. 63 showing finger tabs on a locking ring that extend intothreads of the coupler; and

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 63, showingpressure on finger tabs disengages coupler from mating device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identifysimilar structural features and/or elements of the subject matterdisclosed herein, there is illustrated in FIG. 1 a system for releasablycoupling a tube set to a surgical device constructed in accordance witha preferred embodiment of the subject invention and designated generallyby reference numeral 100.

In the description that follows, FIGS. 1-20 include couplers and matingdevices designed to upgrade the current tri-lumen system, FIGS. 21-26illustrate dual lumen connectors, and FIGS. 27-65 include features forsingle lumen couplers.

I. Tri-Lumen Coupling Assemblies

Referring to FIG. 1, coupling assembly 100 includes a coupler 200adapted and configured to selectively connect the coupler 200 to aconnector (mating device) 300 for incorporation with a surgical device(e.g., a trocar). The features of the coupler 200 and mating device 300described herein are designed to upgrade the current tri-lumen coupler,as disclosed for example in U.S. Patent Publication 2014/0171855, whichis incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and to allow forbetter manufacturing while still being backwards compatible with currentmating devices. The features of the surgical device that is envisionedfor use with the coupler 200 is explained in more detail in U.S. Pat.No. 7,854,724, which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety, and shall not be discussed in detail herein.

With reference to FIGS. 1-4, the coupler 200 includes an elongatedgenerally cylindrical body 214 having opposed distal 214 a and proximalend portions 214 b. The coupler body 214 is directly connected to auniversal filter via a tri-lumen tube 204 through parallel tubefittings. The distal end portion 214 a of the coupler body 214 includesa plurality of flow passages defined by four concentric annular walls.More particularly, the distal end portion 214 a of coupler body 214includes a central flow passage 222 defined by an inner annular wall232, a medial flow passage 224 defined between a medial annular wall 234and the inner annular wall 232, and an outer flow passage 226 definedbetween an outer annular wall 236 and the medial annular wall 234.

A plurality of O-rings are positioned within grooves on each respectiveannular wall to mate the coupler body 214 with luer fittings 322 (shownin FIG. 3) of the mating device 300. The luer fittings 322 are coaxialflow passages that mate with the annular walls 232, 234, 236 and flowpassages 222, 224, 226 of the coupler 200 when fully assembled. TheO-rings increase manufacturability of the coupler 200 to fit with theluer fittings 322 of the mating device 300 without the need for anadditional luer and still being backwards compatible to all existingproducts on the market. As shown in FIG. 2, a first O-ring 242 ispositioned in groove 252 on an exterior portion of inner annular wall232. Similarly, a second O-ring 244 is positioned in groove 254 on anexterior portion of medial annular wall 234 and a third O-ring 246 ispositioned in groove 256 on an exterior portion of outer annular wall236.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, the coupler body 214 includesseveral symmetrical features to join coupler 200 with the mating device300. The symmetrical features include two diametrically opposed latchassemblies including latches 262, 264 and caps 272, 274. Two springs282, 284 allow the latches 262, 264 to be spring loaded and easilymaneuverable with the matching device 300. The latches 262, 264 aregenerally semi-circular housings positioned on the distal end 214 a ofthe coupler body 214.

Each latch 262, 264 includes two outwardly extending parallel extensions262 a, 262 b, 264 a, 264 b which slideably engage within slots 268 ofthe coupler body 214. As shown in FIG. 4, when assembled, the extensionsare juxtaposed within the slots such that extensions 264 a and 264 b areinboard of extensions 262 a and 262 b, respectively. Each latch 262, 264also includes a locking feature 283, 285 that fully enclose the annularwalls and mating device when the coupler 200 is joined with the matingdevice 300. Ends 283 a, 283 b, 285 a, 285 b of the locking features 283,285 are adjacent one another when the coupler 200 and mating device 300are joined. In other words, ends 283 a and 285 a are adjacent oneanother and ends 283 b and 285 b are adjacent one another when fullyassembled. Additionally, each locking feature 283, 285 includes a camface 292, 294, respectively, that mates with external surface 314 ofmating device to hold the coupler 200 in place.

Caps 272, 274 are designed to easily fit tightly with latches 262, 264while also manipulating the springs 280, 282. Each cap 272, 274 includesnotches 272 a, 272 b, 274 a, 274 b with posts 272 c, 272 d, 274 c, 274 dwhich engage holes 262 c, 262 d, 264 c, 264 d of each respectiveextension 262 a, 262 b, 264 a, 264 b. For example, as shown in FIG. 4,extension 264 a is positioned within notch 272 a of cap 272 with post272 c within hole 264 c. Each cap further includes spring pockets 272 e,274 e to contain the springs 282, 284 between the caps 272,274 andcorresponding spring holes 293, 295 of coupler body 214.

With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the coupler 200 and mating device 300can be easily joined by simply pushing the coupler 300 against radiallyoutward extending posts 312 of the mating device 300. More specifically,cam faces 292, 294 push up against posts 312 such that the O-rings 242,244, 246 begin to engage the luer fittings 322 of the mating device 300.Continuing to push the coupler 200 towards the mating device 300 beginsto cam the locking features 283, 285 up and over the posts 312 onto themating device 300. Once the coupler 200 is fully pushed onto the matingdevice 300, the cam faces 292, 294 are locked into position restingagainst surface 314 of the mating device 300.

Ends 283 a, 283 b, 285 a, 285 b are adjacent such that the latches 262,264 fully encloses a portion of mating device 300. At this point, if thetubing 204 twists, the coupler 200 can twist around the mating device300 and not pull off.

With reference to FIG. 5, the coupler 200 can be easily removed from themating device 300 by pressing down on both spring pockets 272 e, 274 eto compress springs 282, 284 and separate the locking features 283, 285.More specifically, as the springs 282, 284 are compressed, lockingfeatures 283, 285 begin to separate. This in turn allows ends 283 a, 285b to be pulled away from one another. Once the locking features 283, 285are separated, the coupler 200 can be removed from the mating device 300by simply pulling the coupler 200 away from and off of the mating device300.

Alternate embodiments of the coupling assembly are shown and describedherein. Couplers and mating devices described in detail below includesimilar features to coupler 200 and mating device 300 therefore similarreference numerals are shown to identify similar features and will notbe described in additional detail.

Referring to FIGS. 6-8, an alternate embodiment of coupling assembly 600includes coupler 700 having caps 772, 774 with flexible tabs 796, 798,respectively, which engage with mating device 800 and hold coupler 700in place. More specifically, flexible tabs 796, 798 extend outwardlyfrom the caps 772, 774 in a generally “V” shape and rest adjacent arespective flat surface 776, 778 of coupler body 614 when coupler 700and mating device 800 are disassembled.

As coupler body 714 is pushed towards and onto mating device 800 theflexible tabs 796, 798 separate or flex away from coupler body 714 whenin contact with posts 812. With continued pressure, ends 783 a, 785 aand 783 b, 785 b are driven apart from one another allowing coupler 700to be pushed over posts 812 and flexible tabs 796, 798 are secured alongsurface 814 of mating device 800. The coupler body 714 is released fromthe mating device 800 by pressing on caps 772, 774 which causes theflexible tabs 796, 798 to separate ends 783 a, 785 a and 783 b, 785 ballowing the coupler 700 to be pulled away from and off of mating device800.

With reference to FIGS. 9-12 an alternate embodiment of couplingassembly 900 is shown having a coupler 1000 with cantilever arms 1072,1074 extending from symmetrical latches 1062, 1064, respectively.Latches 1062, 1064 include extensions 1062 a, 1062 b, 1064 a, 1064 b,respectively, that slideably engage with coupler body 1014 throughopenings 1068. Two openings 1068 are shown in FIG. 9 to acceptextensions 1062 a and 1064 a therethrough. Each extension 1062 a, 1062b, 1064 a, 1064 b include ratchet teeth 1062 c, 1062 d, 1064 c, 1064 d,respectively, that lock the latches 1062, 1064 together. For example, asshown in FIG. 11, ratchet teeth 1062 c and 1064 c are locked togetherwhen latches 1062, 1064 are in a locked position.

Cantilever arms 1072, 1074 extend proximally from the latches 1062, 1064and are used as fulcrums for removing the coupler body 1014 from themating device 1100. To engage the coupler 1000 with the mating device1100, the coupler 1000 is pushed onto the mating device 1100 until camfaces 1092, 1094 on the latches 1062, 1064 are pushed over posts 1112until the cam faces are locked onto surface 1114 of the mating device1100. To remove (shown in FIG. 12), pressing the cantilever arms 1072,1074 towards coupler body 1014 releases the ratchet teeth 1062 c, 1062d, 1064 c, 1064 d and causes locking features 1083, 1085 to separatesuch that the ends 1083 a, 1085 a and ends 1083 b, 1085 b separateallowing coupler 1000 to be pulled away from and off of mating device1100.

Referring to FIGS. 13-15 a further embodiment of coupling assembly 1300is shown. Coupler body 1414 includes a spring loaded outer sleeve 1462encircling an inner sleeve 1464. The inner sleeve 1464 includes aplurality of circumferentially arranged flexible fingers 1464 a whichsurround annular walls 1432, 1434, 1436, O-rings 1442, 1444, 1446 andflow passages 1422, 1424, 1426 of the coupler 1400. An annular groove1475 (shown in FIG. 15) is included on the distal end 1414 a of thecoupler body 1414 which locks the inner sleeve 1464 with the couplerbody 1414. When the outer sleeve 1462 is in a distal position (shown inFIG. 13) the inner sleeve 1464 is secured therein and the flexiblefingers 1464 a are in a locked position. A flange 1465 of the couplerbody 1414 maintains at least one spring 1466 in position between thecoupler body 1414 and outer sleeve 1462.

To engage the coupler 1400 with the mating device 1500, handles 1476,1478 of the outer sleeve 1462 are pulled proximally (shown in FIG. 14)to expose the flexible fingers 1464 a. The coupler 1400 is then pressedonto the mating device 1500 and cam faces 1464 b on the flexible fingers1464 a cam up and over the posts 1512 (shown best in FIG. 15) until ahook feature 1464 c of the flexible fingers 1464 a is locked onto posts1512 (shown best in FIG. 16). The outer sleeve 1462 is released distallywhich once again covers the inner sleeve 1464 and secures the flexiblefingers 1464 a. To remove, the outer sleeve 1462 is pulled to theproximal position and the flexible fingers 1464 a are exposed to allowthe coupler 1400 to be pulled away from and off of mating device 1500.

FIGS. 17-20 illustrate an additional embodiment of coupling assembly1700 with coupler 1800 and mating device 1900. FIG. 18 shows a ringassembly 1816 which locks with coupler body 1814 and maintains a tightseal. The ring assembly 1816 includes a disc 1818 and an arm 1820extending outwardly perpendicular from the disc 1818. Coupler body 1814includes an external post 1832 and two anchors 1834 to engage the arm1820 and prevent disc 1818 from moving linearly towards the matingdevice 1900, but allows vertical movement of the disc 1818 in relationto coupler body 1814.

Coupler body 1814 also includes an annular external groove 1827 (shownin FIG. 19) to hold the disc 1818 in position and additional features(e.g., notches and grooves) 1828 (shown in FIG. 18) that correspond torelated features 1825 of the disc 1818 such that the disc 1818 fitssecurely with coupler body 1814. The arm 1820 extends proximally fromthe disc 1818 and includes generally “L” shaped openings 1846 whichattach to the anchors 1834 of the coupler body 1818 when the arm 1820 isin a compressed position. As shown in FIG. 18, a flexible tab 1823 isdisposed within the arm 1820 and mates against post 1832 of coupler body1814 when in an uncompressed position.

To use, the coupler 1800 is pushed into the mating device 1900 until acam face 1892 (shown in FIG. 20) on the disc 1818 cams up and over themating device posts 1912 and locks the disc 1818 against surface 1914 ofthe mating device 1900. In this position, the coupler 1800 can rotatearound the mating device 1900 if the tubes 1804 from the filter aretwisted. As shown in FIG. 20, pressing down on the arm 1820 causesflexible tab 1823 to press against anchor 1832 and loosen cam face 1892from mating device. Coupler can be pulled away and off of the matingdevice.

II. Dual Lumen Coupling Assemblies

FIGS. 21-23 show a coupling assembly 2100 having a dual lumen coupler2200 and a mating device 2300 with dual luer 2322 features. The coupler2200 includes a ring 2252 and a connector 2256 both coupled to a shroud2254. The ring 2252 and shroud 2256 are linearly aligned with anelongated generally cylindrical body 2214 of the connector 2256. Theconnector body 2214 includes a proximal end 2214 a and an opposingdistal end 2214 b that couples with the shroud 2254 and ring 2252 andengages with luer fittings 2322 of the mating device 2300. The connector2256 includes two concentric annular walls on the distal end allowingfor two flow passages. Specifically, an inner annual wall 2232 definesan inner flow passage 2222 is defined by inner annular wall 2232 andouter flow passage 2224 is defined between the inner annular wall 2232and an outer annular wall 2234.

As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the ring 2252 joins the connector 2256 andshroud 2254 to the mating device 2300 with internal threads 2262 thatrotationally engage the mating device 2300. The ring 2252 includes tabs2264 that snap fit into slots 2266 of the connector 2256 to restrictrotational movement therebetween. The ring 2252 further has flexiblefingers 2272 which engage ramps 2258 of the shroud 2254. To attach theassembled coupler 2200 with the mating device 2300, a user first rotatesthe shroud 2254. Rotation of the shroud 2254 allows threads 2262 of ring2252 to engage and lock onto posts 2312 of the mating device 2300. Inaddition, the shroud ramps 2258 contact the flexible fingers 2272 of thering 2252 and when adequate torque is applied the flexible fingers 2272ratchet off the ramps 2258 and tightly secure the luers 2322 with theannular walls 2232, 2234. To disengage, the user simply reverse rotatesthe shroud 2254 to release the threads 2262 of ring 2252 from the posts2312 of mating device 2300.

The coupling assembly 2400 of FIGS. 24-26 is a further embodiment of acoupling assembly 2400 directed to a dual lumen coupler 2500. In thisembodiment, ring 2552 and shroud 2554 are integrally combined into asingle shroud assembly 2558. The shroud assembly 2558 includes internalthreads 2562 (similar to threads 2262) that engage the mating device andlinear snap features 2564 (similar to 2264) that attach the shroudassembly 2558 to the connector 2556. To attach the coupler 2500 to themating device 2600, the posts 2612 of the mating device are aligned withthe internal threads 2562. The shroud assembly 2558 is rotated until theannular walls 2532, 2534 of connector and the luers 2622 of matingdevice 2600 are attached.

III. Single Lumen Coupling Assemblies

FIGS. 27-29 illustrate a coupling assembly 2700 similar to couplingassembly 240 of FIGS. 24-26, however the connector 2800 is directed to asingle lumen and the mating device 2900 includes a single luer 2922. Inthis embodiment, a distal end 2814 a of the connector body 2814 includesone annular wall 2832 and one flow passage 2822. The design of the ring2825 and shroud 2854 are the same as ring 2552 and shroud 2554 with thering 2825 and shroud 2854 integrally connected to form a shroud assembly2858. The shroud assembly 2858 has an internal thread 2862 that matewith posts 2912 of the mating device 2900 and linear snap features 2864to engage distal end 2814 a of connector. The shroud assembly 2858 isrotated until the internal thread 2862 engages mating device 2900 andthe annular wall 2832 and luer 2922 fit together.

FIGS. 30-32 illustrate a coupling assembly 3000 similar to couplingassembly 2100 as shown in FIGS. 21-23 however, the connector 3100 isdirected to a single flow passage 3132 with one annular wall 3134 andthe mating device includes a single luer 3222. Ring 3152 attaches to theconnector 3156 with snap features 3164 to lock rotation of the connector3156. The ring also has flexible fingers 3172 which will ratchet overramp features 3158 within shroud 3154. Coupler 3100 engages matingdevice 3200 in a similar manner as coupler 2200 with an internal thread3162 locking with posts 3212 when rotational movement is applied toshroud 3154.

Referring now to FIGS. 33-37, a coupling assembly 3300 having a coupler3400 and mating device 3500 is shown. The coupler 3400 has a generallycylindrical body 3414 with a proximal portion 3414 a to engage a singlelumen tube 3404 and a distal portion 3414 b to engage with a matingdevice 3500. The coupler body 3414 includes a single annular wall 3432with a flow passage 3422. An internal diameter of the annular wall 3432is greater than the tube 3404 such that the tube 3404 securely fitswithin the flow passage 3422 to help promote smooth gas flow. Similarly,the inner diameter of the annular wall 3432 is greater than the outerdiameter of the mating device 3500 to fit securely within the flowpassage 3422 such that the mating device 3500 engages with an O-ring3412 positioned within the coupler body 3414.

The distal end 3414 b of the coupler body 3414 includes a plurality ofcam slots 3542 to engage with posts 3512 of mating device 3500. Theposts 3512 have a generally flat surface 3512 a to mate with acorresponding flat end 3542 a of the cam slots 3542. However, variationsof the posts geometry are also contemplated, such as circular posts. Inaddition, further embodiments of the coupler and mating device caninclude variations in the number of posts and corresponding cam slots.

To attach the coupler 3400 to the mating device 3500, the mating device3500 is first inserted into the flow passage 3422 with the cam slots3542 and posts 3512 aligned. The mating device 3500 is pushed throughthe flow passage 3422 until the external wall of the mating device 3500makes contact with the O-ring 3412. Continued pressure of the matingdevice 3500 into the coupler 3400 will begin to push posts 3512 to enterthe cam slots 3512. The coupler 3400 is rotated with continued pressuresuch that the posts 3512 are fully rotated within the cam slots 3542 andthe posts 3512 are in a locking position with the cam slots 3542 (shownin FIGS. 36 and 37). In the locking position, the coupler 3400 willresist pulling off or un-screwing until removal.

To remove, the coupler 3400 and mating device 3500 are again pushedtowards each other and reverse rotated to direct the posts 3512 aroundthe respective cam slot 3542. This movement will release the posts 3512from the cam slots 3542 and the coupler 3400 and mating device 3500 arepulled away from each other. As shown in FIGS. 33-37, cam slots 3542have a generally “U” shaped configuration to lock posts therein.However, other similar designs can be utilized. For example, as shown inFIG. 38 an alternate design for a cam slot 3842 is illustrated. Thedesign intent for coupler body 3814 is for the cam slot 3842 to directthe posts to the end of the cam slot 3842 b where the post 3512 will berestricted from pulling or rotating off until a user again pushes thecoupler body 3814 towards mating device 3500 and begins reverse rotationfor removal.

FIG. 39 shows an alternate embodiment of a coupler 3900. Coupler 3900 issimilar to coupler 3400 in that coupler 3900 is designed for a singlelumen tube 3904 and includes cam slots 3942 along a distal end 3914 b ofcoupler body 3914. Coupler 3900 includes a compression spring 3952positioned within coupler body 3914 proximal of an O-ring 3946. Thecompression spring is shown as wave washer 3952 that contacts a matingdevice (e.g., mating device 3500) and creates spring loaded resistanceto coupler removal when the posts (e.g., posts 3512) are in a lockedposition (shown in FIG. 37) of the coupler cam slot 3942.

FIGS. 41-42 illustrate an alternate embodiment of a coupling assembly4100 including a coupler 4200 and mating device 4300. Coupler 4200includes an O-ring 4212 to secure and seal mating device 4300 to coupler4200. In this embodiment, inside diameter of the mating device 4300 islarger than the inside diameter of the tube 4204 to help gas flow. Afurther alternate embodiment would have the inside diameter the same forboth the tube and mating device, similar to coupling assembly 3300 shownin FIG. 33.

As shown in FIG. 42, a distal portion 4214 b of the coupler body 4214 isgenerally conical with a least two flexible tabs 4276, 4278 extendingfrom an outer edge 4274. The distal portion 4214 b further includesexternal ridges 4268 for maneuvering tabs 4276, 4278. A distal portion4314 b of the mating device has a greater external diameter than aproximal portion 4314 a and includes an annular lip 4328. A ramp feature4326 guides the flexible tabs 4276, 4278 towards the annular lip 4328.As a user pushes the coupler 4200 towards the mating device 4300 theflexible tabs 4276, 4278 flex outwardly along the ramp feature 3526 andthen snap onto the lip 4328 securing the coupler 4200 to the matingdevice 4300. To remove, the user squeezes the external ridges 4268 toexpand the flex tabs 4276, 4278 away from and off the lip 4328 and pullsthe coupler 4200 away from the mating device 4300.

FIGS. 44-49 illustrate alternate embodiments of coupling assemblies 4400and 4700 with couplers 4500 and 4800 and mating devices 4600 and 4800,respectively, using threading on both the couplers 4500 and 4800 andmating devices 4600 and 4800. In FIGS. 44-45, the coupler 4500 has aninner 4532 and outer sleeve 4534. The outer sleeve 4534 includesflexible features 4572 that snap onto corresponding features 4556 of theinner sleeve 4532 during assembly. For example, as shown in FIG. 45,outer sleeve has flexible tabs 4572 that are disposed adjacent innersleeve 4532 and rest on ledge 4556 to prevent linear movement of outersleeve 4534. The inner sleeve 4532 is static to the lumen 4504 and theouter sleeve 4534 is allowed to rotate freely.

As shown in FIG. 45, an O-ring 4512 is secured around the inner sleeve4532 for sealing the coupler 4500 to the mating device 4600. Outersleeve 4534 includes internal threads 4542 that engage external threads4652 of mating device 4600. Simply aligning the outer sleeve 4534 withthe mating device 4600 and rotating the mating device 4600 into theouter sleeve 4534 intimately engages the coupler 4500 with mating device4600. This embodiment is designed such that tubing itself does notrotate when installed. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 45, the externaldiameter of tube 4504 is less than the luer fitting of the mating device4600 but could be the same, as shown in earlier embodiments.

The coupling assembly 4700 shown in FIGS. 47-49 also includes a coupler4800 with an inner sleeve 4832 and an outer sleeve 4834. The innersleeve 4832 stays static to tubing 4804. The outer sleeve 4834 attachesto the inner sleeve 4832 with a tongue 4836 and annular groove feature4838 (shown in FIG. 49) that positions the outer sleeve 4834 linearly tothe inner sleeve 4832 but allows the outer sleeve 4834 free rotation. AnO-ring 4514 is disposed between the inner and outer sleeves 4832, 4834for sealing. Similar to outer sleeve 4534, outer sleeve 4834 has aninternal thread and O-ring 4512 to engage and seal with an externalthread 4952 of mating device 4900.

With reference to FIGS. 50-52, another embodiment for a couplingassembly 5000 is shown. In this embodiment, a ring assembly ispositioned at a distal portion 5114 b of the coupler 5100. Morespecifically, the ring assembly includes a ring 5142 that is partiallydisposed within the coupler body 5114 surrounding the annular wall 5132.An external spring loaded tab 5152 extends proximally from the ring 5142which allows for manipulating the ring 5142 to flex around posts 5212 ofthe mating device 5200 to engage therewith. As shown in FIG. 51, the tab5152 includes a spring pocket 5144 to house a spring 5146 between thetab 5152 and coupler body 5114. The tab 5152 has a generally hookfeature which mates with an opening 5162 of coupler body 5114.

To assemble, the coupler 5100 is pushed onto the mating device 5200 suchthat a cam face 5172 of the ring 5142 contacts posts 5212 of matingdevice 5200. Continued pressure will cause compression of the spring5146 allowing the ring 5142 to flex over the posts 5212. When fullyassembled, the cam face 5172 of the ring 5142 rests along externalsurface 5214 of mating device 5200. Pressure on the tab 5152 (shown inFIG. 52) flexes the ring 5142 and allows for the coupler 5100 to bepulled away from and off of mating device 5200. The embodiment shown inFIG. 50 illustrates round posts to secure the ring to the mating device,however other similar constructions such as an annular lip (e.g., asshown on mating device 5500 of FIG. 53), or the like, may be used.

FIGS. 53-56 show yet another alternate embodiment for a couplingassembly 5300 including a coupler 5400 having pivoting latches 5442. Inthis embodiment, an inner sleeve 5432 is integrally connected to tube5404. Latches 5442 are positioned between the inner sleeve 5432 and anouter sleeve 5452. The inner sleeve 5432 includes flanges 5434 which actas a pivot point and prevent latches 5442 from moving linearly towardsmating device 5500. The outer sleeve 5452 also has flexible tabs 5454which hold the latches 5442 in a home position or a closed position.

The latches 5442 include a locking feature 5444 that engage an externalring (or lip) 5512 on the mating device 5500. To assemble, a userpresses the latches 5442 and pivots them to flex locking feature 5444away from the inner sleeve 5432 into an open position. Pressing thecoupler 5400 towards the mating device 5500 allows the locking feature5444 to push over the external ring 5512 (shown in FIG. 55). When thelatches 5442 are released the flex tabs 5454 will rotate the latches5442 back to a closed position and lock the latches 5442 such that thelocking feature 5444 is positioned along surface 5514 of mating device(shown in FIG. 56).

To remove, the user presses the latches 5442 and releases the lockingfeature 5444 from the external ring 5512 and pulls the coupler 5400 awayfrom the matching device 5500. An alternate embodiment of this designincludes the latches opening while camming against the mating devicewhen the coupler and mating device are pressed together so that thelocking features self-lock without having to press on the latches.

FIGS. 57-60 illustrate another embodiment of a coupling assembly 5700similar to coupling assembly 5300. In this embodiment, latches 5842extend from a flexible ring 5844 that snaps into outer sleeve 5852 andpivots against outer sleeve 5852. When assembled, outer sleeve 5852 fitsover inner sleeve 5832 with inner sleeve 5832 including flanges 5834 toprevent movement of outer sleeve 5852. Pressing and releasing latches5842 allows ring 5844 to flex outwardly to push over posts 5912 (shownin FIG. 60) or release to pull coupler away from mating device 5900.This design can be used either by pivoting the latches (as shown) or bythe latches camming open automatically during engagement with posts ofthe matching device.

FIGS. 61-62 illustrate an alternate embodiment of a coupling assembly6100 having a static ring 6242 and a rotating ring 6252. The static ring6242 connects to tubing 6204 and the rotating ring 6252 has an internalthread 6254 (shown in FIG. 62) to engage mating device 6300. The thread6254 includes locking features 6256 that lock the rotating ring 6252 toposts 6312 of the mating device 6300 when fully assembled. To engage thecoupler 6200 to mating device 6300, a user rotates the rotating ring6252 onto the mating device posts 6312. The posts 6312 engage thelocking features 6256 and secure the coupler 6200 thereto. To remove,the user simply reverse rotates the rotating ring 6252 to release theposts 6312 from the locking features 6256 and pulls coupler 6200 awayfrom mating device 6300.

Referring to FIGS. 63-65, an alternate embodiment for a coupler isshown. This design is includes an outer sleeve 6432 positioned overcoupler body (not shown for clarity) with a locking ring 6442. As shownin FIG. 64, the locking ring 6442 has flexible tabs 6454 that extendthrough slots 6456 of an internal thread 6452 within outer sleeve 6432.As the coupler is screwed onto mating device 6500, the flex tabs 6454contact posts 6512 of the mating device 6500 and flex over the posts6512 with continued pressure to lock coupler in place. To remove, a usersqueezes finger tabs 6444 on locking ring 6442 which will lift theflexible tabs 6454 off posts 6512 and allow for unscrewing the coupleraway from the mating device 6500.

While the subject invention has been shown and described with referenceto preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will readilyappreciate that various changes and/or modifications may be made theretowithout departing from the spirit and scope of the subject invention asdefined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A coupling system for connecting a tube set to atrocar comprising: a) a cylindrical connector for communicating with amulti-lumen trocar, the connector having a plurality of coaxial flowpassages defined therein by a plurality of concentric annular walls, andthe connector having a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart postsextending radially outwardly from an exterior surface thereof; b) acoupling including a generally cylindrical body having a first endportion configured to selectively mate with the plurality of coaxialflow passages of the connector and a second end portion configured forattachment to a multi-lumen tube set; and c) a latch assemblyoperatively associated with the cylindrical body of the coupling andincluding a pair of diametrically opposed spring loaded latches forselectively engaging the plurality of radially outwardly extendingcircumferentially spaced apart posts of the connector when the couplingmates with the connector, wherein the pair of diametrically opposedspring loaded latches each includes a semi-circular cam face forinteracting with the posts when the coupling is mated with theconnector, whereby the spring loaded latches move radially outwardly ina direction that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of thecylindrical body of the coupling when the cam faces are pushed upagainst the posts and the spring loaded latches move radially inwardlyto a locked position when the cam faces are pushed over the posts, andwherein a cap is associated with each spring loaded latch for holdingthe latch in place with respect to the body of the coupling and a springis located between each cap and each latch for biasing the latch intothe locked position.
 2. A coupling system as recited in claim 1, whereinthe first end portion of the body of the coupling includes a pluralityof concentric annular walls for mating with the connector and whereineach annular wall of the plurality of coaxial flow passages issurrounded by an O-ring seal located within an annular groove.
 3. Acoupling system as recited in claim 1, wherein the first end portion ofthe body of the coupling includes an inner flow passage, a medial flowpassage surrounding the inner flow passage and an outer flow passagesurrounding the medial flow passage.
 4. A coupling system as recited inclaim 1, wherein each latch of the latch assembly includes outwardlyextending parallel extensions that slideably engage within opposingslots of the cylindrical body of the coupling.
 5. A coupling system asrecited in claim 1, wherein the spring comprises a separate coiledspring that is located between each cap and each latch.
 6. A couplingsystem as recited in claim 1, wherein the spring comprises flexiblespring tabs that are formed integral with each cap and are locatedbetween each cap and each latch.